As the baseball season approaches, former Astros’ pitcher and long-time announcer Jim Deshaies took a few minutes to answer a few questions.

Q: Lots of changes since Drayton McLane handed the keys to Jim Crane. What’s been the most positive change you’ve observed since then?

JD: I think Jim and his group have things pointed in the right direction. The commitment to building the farm system is the way to go.

Q: No one will pick the Astros to be in the World Series in 2012. So if the goal is not the playoffs or contention, what are the biggest goals for the Astros this season?

JD: Improvement and development. This will be another year to find out who can be a long term contributor and who can’t. Still many questions about some of the young guys. Very difficult to make a huge leap forward at this stage. 70 wins would be a nice move in the right direction.

Q: There are many passionate fans against the move to the American League. Having played in both leagues, what are the pros and cons?

JD: I’m not a fan of the DH, but that is not that big of an issue. Other than that no significant difference. I will miss 3 trips to Wrigley every year though.

Q: Do you believe – as do many fans – that the Astros will struggle in the AL West?

JD: Not at all. Right now the Astros would struggle no matter what division they are in. But, I see no reason why the AL West long term would be more difficult than any other. The division is currently top heavy with the Rangers and the Angels, but the A’s and the M’s have plenty of issues.

Q: What is one rule change you’d like to see come to MLB?

JD: I would be in favor of any rule (within reason) that increases pace of play. Fewer trips to the mound by coaches, catchers and position players would help. Managers would have restrictions on how much they can come out to argue.

Q: Houston has many young kids on the roster and more waiting in the wings. Who are the possible stars, surprises or sleepers?

JD: Jury is still out on so many of these guys. I continue to hear great things about Jonathan Singleton. Looks like he has a chance to be a “star.” Last year’s first rounder George Springer has all the tools as well. The Santana kid (acquired as the player to be named in the Pence deal) has opened some eyes. He may be a sleeper worth watching. And if you’re looking for a surprise, how about Chris Johnson? If he can hit anywhere close to what he has done this spring, I guess that would qualify as a surprise.

Q: After a 106-loss season in 2011, what is the biggest challenge facing new GM Jeff Luhnow and his team?

JD: Getting the draft right and finding the right pieces for any of the veterans he can move during the season.

Q: Looking ahead to the draft and the Astros’ #1 pick, do you see any favorites? Should Houston draft a college player or high school player?

JD: I don’t really know enough about the amateur prospect class to offer an opinion on that one. I would think a college kid would make sense. Presumably he would be closer to major league ready.

Q: During a recent blog entry, many Astros’ fans chose you as one of the all-time best Astros’ announcers. What makes your relationship with Bill Brown as announcers unique and special?

JD: That’s easy. Brownie is awesome. He’s the ultimate pro and I’m a goofball left-hander. The difference in style seems to be a good recipe.

Q: Quick football question: Can Peyton Manning lead the Denver Broncos to the Super Bowl?

JD: Yes he can…but he won’t. Packers will win the next Super Bowl (or should I have said “Big Game”)

And, a quick lightning round with Jim Deshaies.

Biggest player move this offseason? “That’s easy, Pujols.”

Favorite movie you saw this off season? “Not as easy. Didn’t see many. “The Artist” I guess.”

Sleeper MLB team in 2012. “How about the Washington Nationals. Maybe a year or two away but could contend in a tough NL East.”

Will the NL eventually approve the DH? “I hope not. Would prefer the AL and the players association would see the light.”

What kind of car do you drive? “Mostly a Honda Pilot.”

Now, for a quick word association. JD, what word or words come to mind when you hear these names:

Jim Crane. “Committed.”

Jeff Luhnow. “Innovative.”

Astrodome. “Sad, nostalgia.”

Jeremy Lin. “Is he still playing well? Don’t really follow the NBA.”

Tim Tebow. “Jimmy Fallon.”

Sean Payton. “That’s pretty nasty stuff. Bonuses for injuries? Way out of line.”